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Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is a type of radiation treatment in which a three-dimensional dose of radiation is delivered with a single rotation of a linear accelerator. Compared to other options, in which a delivery machine must rotate around a patient several times, starting and stopping periodically throughout the process, VMAT is faster and more efficient, taking as little as two minutes per delivery session.

Volumetric modulated arc therapy can be used to treat several types of solid tumors, including:

  • Prostate cancer
  • Liver cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer

To ensure that the maximum dose of radiation is delivered to a tumor while minimizing exposure to the surrounding healthy tissue, a physician can use advanced computer software to help plan and guide the treatment. As with other types of external beam radiation therapy, VMAT typically involves a planning session that takes place prior to the actual treatment sessions to ensure that the linear accelerator is properly aligned with a tumor and the software plans are as accurate as possible.

At Moffitt Cancer Center, each patient’s unique diagnosis is reviewed by a collaborative team of specialists. Together, the members of this team determine the best radiation therapy approach, whether it involves VMAT, a different form of external beam radiation therapy or a radioactive implant.

While Moffitt is renowned for our advanced technologies, our providers are the heart and soul of our radiation therapy department. With a highly skilled group of radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, dosimetrists, physicians and supportive care providers available to tend to our patients’ needs, we consistently produce exceptional outcomes and enhance each patient’s quality of life.

No referral is required to seek treatment at Moffitt. To learn more about volumetric modulated arc therapy or any of our other radiation treatments, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online.